Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Three STEM Challenges

Here's three of my favorite STEM challenges! They are all simple, fun and inexpensive. It really gives students the chance to show teamwork. If you're familiar with Habits of Mind, it gives you a great opportunity to talk about working interdependently. A few notes: Give students time to decide on a plan before letting them begin the challenge. Talk about having a plan B. Sometimes I select the groups, other times I let students pick their partners. I think they need to experience both ways.Challenge 1: Paper Chain (groups of 1-3 students)I prefer to let my students work in groups of two for this challenge. Each group needs one sheet of construction paper, scissors and a glue stick. You determine the amount of time. The longest chain wins the challenge! More information from the Math Chick: The Great Chain Race

Challenge 2: Spaghetti Tower (groups of 3 students)

Students need a handful of marshmallows and spaghetti noodles. I do not count these out! This challenge was more difficult than my students expected.

These activities are great any time of the year, but the end of year is when I usually let students do the most challenges. My students made sure they included details about STEM in their letters to future second graders. It made me realize how much they enjoyed these activities.